Filtration System
by Betty Mitchell RN BSN
Parish Nurse, Emmanuel Bethel Church, Royal Oak, Michigan
Just like the filter in your coffee maker (or in a K-cup), our kidneys help filter out waste products, including drugs, and excess fluid from our bodies. The kidneys also help regulate our body’s salt, potassium and acid content. Hormones are produced in the kidneys to help regulate red blood cell production and blood pressure, and to control calcium metabolism.
The kidneys are about the size of your fist and are located on either side of your spine at the lowest end of the rib cage.
About 200 quarts of fluid is filtered and returned to the blood stream each day. About two quarts of waste and fluid of urine is produced daily and excreted. Urine is stored in the bladder from one to eight hours.
Kidney disease may cause a decrease in the kidneys’ ability to properly filter the blood, allowing wastes and excess fluid to build up in your body.
Some of the factors that may increase your risk for kidney disease are high blood pressure, aging, diabetes, family history of chronic kidney disease, being African-American, Hispanic-American, or American Indian, Asian or Pacific Islander. Your doctor will know what blood and urine tests to order to monitor your kidney function if you fall into one of these categories.
Since diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease, controlling your blood glucose levels will help keep your kidneys healthy.
High blood pressure can not only cause heart attacks and strokes, it can also cause kidney disease. Have your blood pressure checked regularly to be sure it is within the limits set by your health care provider to keep your kidneys healthy.
Adequate blood flow to the kidneys is essential for their health. Keeping your cholesterol levels within acceptable limits will help prevent clogged arteries to the kidneys.
In addition to limiting your salt and alcohol intake, select foods that are good for your heart: fresh fruits, fresh or frozen vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Losing weight and being more active will also assist in keeping your kidneys healthy. Cigarette smoking can worsen kidney damage.
Some warning signs of kidney disease include high blood pressure, blood and/or protein in your urine, altered blood kidney tests, more frequent or painful urination and puffiness around the eyes, hands or feet.
